MEP David McAllister on the European Political Community

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has been a wake-up call for all of us. In this context, it is crucial that we intensify relations with our strategic partners all over the globe and especially with our like-minded neighbours in Europe. In this regard, I welcome the inaugural meeting of the European Political Community. I would like to thank the Czech Presidency for hosting, organising and making this event a success.

This new platform has potential. The gathering delivered some concrete results, for example as regards the organisation of a civilian EU mission on the border between Armenia and Azerbaijan or agreeing on a future UK-France bilateral summit.

As such, the European Political Community can foster political dialogue for the benefit of the entire continent. However, it is clear that the European Political Community cannot replace existing EU policies and instruments, notably enlargement. It has to fully respect the European Union’s decision-making autonomy. The European Political Community should not create a two-speed Europe.

Now, a strategic follow-up to the meeting in Prague is key to shape the future work of the European Political Community. This new format should be used to deliver concrete solutions to Europe’s most pressing issues.